The Answer
26 weeks at minimum wage (~$26,130)
Since 1 July 2026: 26 weeks total. Super (12%) is also paid on PPL. Both parents can share the leave in any combination.
Now in effect: PPL rose to 26 weeks (130 days) on 1 July 2026 — the final leg of the legislated extension. Children who entered care before 1 July 2026 stay on the previous 24-week (120-day) entitlement (~$22,750 plus ~$2,730 in super).
PPL at a Glance (2026–27, current)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total leave | 26 weeks (130 days) |
| Payment rate | National minimum wage ($26.44/hour = $1,004.90/week before tax) |
| Total value | ~$26,130 + ~$3,135 in super |
| Super on PPL | Yes — 12%, paid directly to your super fund |
| Income test | Individual income under $175,000 in prior financial year |
| Sharing | Both parents can share the 26 weeks in any combination |
| Reserved days | 6 weeks reserved for each parent (use-it-or-lose-it) |
How to Apply
- Claim through myGov → Centrelink before or after the birth
- Provide your expected or actual birth date
- Confirm your income details
- Choose how to split leave between parents (if applicable)
- Payment starts after you stop working and the child is born
Employer-Funded Parental Leave
Many employers offer their own parental leave on top of the government PPL. You can receive both — check your employment contract or enterprise agreement. Some employers top up PPL to your full salary for a period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can both parents get PPL?
Yes. The 26 weeks can be shared between both parents in any combination. 6 weeks are reserved for each parent on a use-it-or-lose-it basis.
Is PPL taxable?
Yes. PPL is taxable income. Tax is withheld at the time of payment.
When does super on PPL start?
The 12% super entitlement started on 1 July 2025. The ATO pays the accrued super directly to your super fund annually, after the end of each financial year — so PPL super from FY 2025-26 lands in your fund from 1 July 2026.
What Changed
18 Jul 2026
PPL 26 weeks (130 days) now in effect: figures updated to the 2026–27 minimum wage ($1,004.90/week) — total ~$26,130 plus ~$3,135 super; pre-July entitlement kept as a note.
Apr 2026
Content verified